Hilton Jay Denny is a New Zealand-born author, artist, and entrepreneur currently based in Thailand. Known internationally for his work as a traditional Polynesian tattoo artist, he has spent years building businesses rooted in creativity, craftsmanship, and storytelling.
Originally from the South Island of New Zealand and of Māori ( Ngāi Tahu tribe) and Dutch heritage, Hilton developed a deep connection to visual storytelling, cultural symbolism, and artistic expression from an early age. Over the years, that creative drive expanded beyond tattooing into design, branding, writing, and business development.
As the founder of a successful tattoo studio in Thailand, Hilton became known for his freehand Polynesian and tribal tattoo work, combining traditional techniques with modern artistic flow. His work and designs have reached clients from around the world.
Burnt Twice marks his entry into psychological crime fiction, blending atmospheric coastal settings, emotional realism, and slow-burning suspense. His writing focuses on damaged people, buried truths, and the lasting effects of trauma and memory.
When not writing, Hilton continues to work across multiple creative industries, including art, publishing, design, fashion, property development, and digital media.